Lucknow: The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court has directed Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) vice-chairperson Prathamesh Kumar to appear in person on Sept 3 in a contempt case and imposed a cost of Rs 5,000 for failure to comply with an earlier order within the stipulated time.Justice Saurabh Lavania issued the directions while hearing a contempt petition filed by Dr Anju Gupta. The petition concerns allegations of illegal construction and encroachment near a public park, footpaths and other locations in Nehru Enclave Colony, Gomti Nagar.The court asked the LDA vice-chairperson to explain why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him for non-compliance with the court’s May 20 order. It further directed that if the order has still not been complied with, necessary action must be taken within two weeks. The LDA has also been instructed to file a compliance affidavit before the court.The bench ordered payment of Rs 5,000 to the petitioner as compensation and clarified that the amount must not be paid from the treasury. It said the cost should be borne personally by the officer found responsible.The court added that personal appearance on Sept 3 would not be required if compliance is ensured within the given period and proof of compliance and payment is submitted.
